Development Internship - Summer

Position Summary

The Summer Development Intern will support the Development team by conducting in-depth research on private foundations and philanthropic organizations that align with JLC’s mission and issue areas. This internship provides hands-on experience in nonprofit development, prospect research, and philanthropy analysis while contributing to real fundraising strategy.

This position is unpaid.

Key Responsibilities

  1. Engage in meetings and research to become familiar with organization issue areas and program
  2. Research foundation and philanthropy prospects that align with Juvenile Law Center’s issue areas using web research, reviewing publicly available financial documents, and public grant announcements 
  3. Draft detailed foundation profiles using a provided template

Deliverables

By the end of the internship, the intern will have produced:

  • A vetted list of foundation prospects  and completed profiles  
  • Organized research notes suitable for future grant planning
  • A brief reflection or summary memo on research findings (optional but recommended)

Supervision & Support

  • The intern will report to the CEO
  • Weekly check-ins to receive task clarification, feedback on drafted profiles, and professional development guidance
  • Intern will receive training on prospect research best practices, and development team workflows

Qualifications

Required:

  • Strong internet and database research skills
  • Excellent written communication and attention to detail
  • Ability to manage time independently and meet deadlines

Preferred:

  • Interest in nonprofit development, fundraising, or philanthropy
  • Familiarity with social justice or advocacy organizations

Time Commitment & Flexibility

  • 10–15 hours per week
  • Flexible scheduling to accommodate other commitments
  • This position may be either remote or hybrid with in-person hours at our Philadelphia office.

Application process

Please submit an application packet to [email protected] with “Summer Non-Legal Internship” in the subject line. Your application packet should include a single pdf with a cover letter indicating your interest in the position, resume, and at least two references, with email addresses and phone numbers. We want to know why you are applying for an internship with Juvenile Law Center. In your cover letter, please discuss your interest in working with Juvenile Law Center; any personal, professional, or academic experience or interest in the juvenile justice or child welfare systems; and/or how you will support Juvenile Law Center’s commitment to diversity. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis.